Scales: A Minor Pentatonic ( 5 positions )

One of the most commonly used scales in improvisation is the Minor Pentatonic scale. Shown below are 5 positions of the A Minor Pentatonic scale. The second position shown is probably the most commonly used shape of this scale. While learning all five is highly recommended, start off by learning the adjacent positions (1 and 3) as this will offer you far more variety in your playing.

Remember that these scales can be played anywhere on the neck. In the case of this scale, if you were to start the same shape (pattern) one fret higher it would become the Bb Minor Pentatonic scale. One fret lower and it becomes the Ab Minor Pentatonic scale.

When practicing any scale, always start off slowly. Play precisely and cleanly remembering to double pick ( pick .. down, up, down, up, down etc.). Speed will come but you will see much better results if you work on precision first.

The lessons on improvisation will give you some ideas on how to use these scales to their fullest advantage.

Click on the diagram for an MP3 audio example.

Click here if you’re not sure how to read the scale blocks.

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